SriLankan's new management will break new ground

The change in management will not deter the Airline from retaining its status as a prestigious carrier and venturing into new destinations, said Head of Worldwide Passenger Sales, SriLankan Airlines, Manoj Gunawardena.

He was addressing a ceremony to launch the 'SmiLes' frequent flyer program at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel on Tuesday.The program will commence on April 1. Gunawardena said that SriLankan Airlines gained recognition and developed as a leading carrier under the Emirates management.

We are confident that the new management will help to break new ground and offer a good service to customers. SriLankan Airlines contract with the Dubai based aviation giant Emirates ends tomorrow.

In response to a query whether the Airline intends to merge with Mihin Air he said a merger is not possible with the difference in shareholding.

"There is no threat to SriLankan Airlines routes. We will continue to operate and fly to new destinations," Gunawardena said.

Project Head, SriLankan Airlines, Mohammed Fazeel said the SmiLes frequent flyer program will not only recognise and reward frequent flyers but also loyal customers.

SmiLes will partner with airlines and companies to offer members a wide range of services such as hotel accommodation to banking services. Pre assigned seating and priority wait-listing are some of the other benefits of the program.

SmiLes memberships of Gold, Silver and Blue depend on how many miles a customer accrues.Members can exchange their miles for rewards such as free air tickets to Europe, Middle East, South Asia and the Far East.

The airline's previous frequent flyer program, Skywards ends tomorrow. Skywards members can partly or fully transfer their miles to SmiLes.

LF